Yes, it has a name.
Hyperemesis or Hyperemesis Gravidarum is what I have.
(click on the name to read more about it)
I'm pregnant with our third child and just can't function.
No, I'm not a weakly wimp who can't handle a little morning sickness. I have the most extreme form there is. And although I'm not in the least bit excited about it in any way (the sickness that is), I am a little relieved that there is a name for it and I'm not alone. Unfortunately it is rare, but not unheard of.
I'm thankful for my doctor who recognized it right away and has been aggressively and actively trying to battle this with me. He ROCKS!
After 5 different medications and being in the hospital twice, constant passing out, vomiting blood...you get the idea...he has set me up with a home nursing company. They have me hooked to an infusion pump so I can receive a steady dose of medicine 24/7 . I'm also hooked on the other side to an IV so no more trips to the hospital (hopefully, those beds are so uncomfy).
Now my new treatment isn't just peaches and cream (you know, all around yummy and good). It comes with many side effects and downfalls. For instance the first medicine didn't work. They have me on a second medicine (they only do the 2) which works better but leaves huge red painful welts on my skin where the catheter is inserted, so we have to change the site of the catheter at least everyday. And that's no fun. It's an inch long needle that gets stabbed into my stomach then retracted, leaving the catheter in place (lovely, I know). And it still takes about 3 days before the welt starts to fade and not hurt anymore. My poor tummy looks (and feels) like it was stung by 50 bees.
My veins kept collapsing when the nurse tried to put in my IV (common in dehydration) so she ended up having to put it in the crook of my arm. So now I can't bend my elbow. Do you have any idea how hard it is, day and night, to not bend your elbow? Take it from me, HARD!
I'm a hilariously ridiculous site right now. Tubes going every which way, rat nested hair, no make up, confined to my bed...but do I care. No! Because I got to see my new little one in an ultrasound and he/she is PERFECT. I got to see the little face, little arms moving around and even got a picture of his/her little hand...all those adorable teeny tiny fingers!
And that makes all of this worth every second!
~Cara
